Fully Funded PhD Student Position in Molecular Immunology – IRB Bellinzona, Switzerland (Fall 2026)

Are you interested in immunology, molecular biology, CRISPR technology, and understanding how immune cells control human health and disease?

A fully funded PhD student opportunity in Molecular Immunology is available at the Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB), Bellinzona, Switzerland, within the research group of Dr. Silvia Monticelli. The position is connected with the PhD program at Università della Svizzera italiana (USI) and is expected to start in Fall 2026.

About the Research Group

The Molecular Immunology Laboratory at IRB Bellinzona investigates how molecular processes regulate immune cell activation, differentiation, and function. The laboratory focuses particularly on human T lymphocytes and explores how gene regulation mechanisms influence immune responses.

Research interests of the group include:

• Regulation of immune-cell gene expression
• Transcriptional and post-transcriptional control mechanisms
• RNA regulation and RNA-binding proteins
• MicroRNA-mediated immune regulation
• Molecular pathways involved in inflammatory T cell responses

The lab has contributed to understanding molecular networks controlling immune responses, including mechanisms involved in balancing inflammatory programs in human immune cells.

PhD Project Overview

The selected PhD researcher will work on projects aimed at uncovering the molecular mechanisms that shape immune-cell identity and function in health and disease.

The research will involve modern biomedical approaches including:

• Human primary cell culture
• Flow cytometry-based immune profiling
• CRISPR-based gene perturbation approaches
• Functional cellular assays
• Molecular biology and biochemical techniques

This project is suitable for candidates who want to develop strong expertise in cellular immunology, molecular mechanisms of disease, and advanced experimental biology.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants should have:

A Master’s degree in:

• Immunology
• Molecular Biology
• Biomedical Sciences
• Life Sciences
• Related biological disciplines

Ideal candidates should demonstrate:

• Strong interest in scientific research
• Motivation to develop independent research skills
• Good written and spoken English communication ability

Additional experience in the following areas will be advantageous:

• Bioinformatics analysis
• CRISPR-based technologies
• Molecular biology techniques

Funding and Benefits

The successful candidate will receive:

• Fully funded PhD position
• Salary and employment conditions aligned with the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) standards
• PhD enrollment at Università della Svizzera italiana (USI)
• Access to advanced biomedical research facilities
• Scientific training through seminars, journal clubs, and research discussions

Why Choose Bellinzona, Switzerland?

Bellinzona is located in the Italian-speaking region of Switzerland and offers an excellent environment for international researchers.

Benefits include:

• High research standards
• Safe and high-quality living environment
• Access to European scientific networks
• Convenient connections to major cities such as Zurich and Milan

About IRB Bellinzona

The Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB) is an internationally recognized biomedical research institute dedicated to understanding human biology and disease mechanisms. Established in 2000, IRB hosts multiple research groups working in immunology, molecular biology, structural biology, and related biomedical fields.

Application Information

Interested applicants should prepare a single PDF containing:

1. Motivation letter explaining research interests
2. Curriculum Vitae (including academic background and grades)
3. Contact information of two referees

Application email:
[email protected]

Application review: Rolling basis until the position is filled.